Former D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct

This document has governed the practice of law in the District of Columbia from January 1, 1991, through January 31, 2007. As of February 1, 2007, the Amended Rules took effect.

Court Order
Preface
Scope
Terminology
Note to the Reader
Rule 1—Client-Lawyer Relationship

1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10
1.11
1.12
1.13
1.14
1.15
1.16
1.17

Competence
Scope of Representation
Diligence and Zeal
Communication
Fees
Confidentiality of Information
Conflict of Interest: General Rule
Conflict of Interest: Prohibited Transactions
Conflict of Interest: Former Client
Imputed Disqualification: General Rule
Successive Government and Private Employment
Former Arbitrator
Organization as Client
Client Under a Disability
Safekeeping Property
Declining or Terminating Representation
Trust Account Overdraft Notification

Rule 2—Counselor

2.1
2.2
2.3

Advisor
Intermediary
Evaluation for Use by Third Persons

Rule 3—Advocate

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9

Meritorious Claims and Contentions
Expediting Litigation
Candor Toward the Tribunal
Fairness to Opposing Party and Counsel
Impartiality and Decorum of the Tribunal
Trial Publicity
Lawyer as Witness
Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor
Advocate in Nonadjudicative Proceedings

Rule 4—Transactions with Persons Other Than Clients

4.1
4.2

4.3
4.4

Truthfulness in Statements to Others
Communication Between Lawyer and
Opposing Parties
Dealing with Unrepresented Person
Respect for Rights of Third Persons

Rule 5—Law Firms and Associations

5.1

5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6

Responsibilities of a Partner or
Supervisory Lawyer
Responsibilities of a Subordinate Lawyer
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
Professional Independence of a Lawyer
Unauthorized Practice of Law
Restriction on Right to Practice

Rule 6—Public Service

6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4

Pro Bono Publico Service
Accepting Appointments
Membership in Legal Services Organization
Law Reform Activities

Rule 7—Information About Legal Services

7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5

Communications Concerning a Lawyer’s Services
Not contained in District of Columbia Rules
Not contained in District of Columbia Rules
Not contained in District of Columbia Rules
Firm Names and Letterheads

Rule 8—Maintaining the Integrity of the Profession

8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5

Bar Admission and Disciplinary Matters
Not contained in District of Columbia Rules
Reporting Professional Misconduct
Misconduct
Disciplinary Authority; Choice of Law

Rule 9—Nondiscrimination by Members of the Bar

9.1

Discrimination in Employment